The 12 best hotels in Koh Samui to suit every budget

Vying for top spot among Koh Samui’s most luxurious pads, these 27 individual, modern villas cling to a hillside, offering stunning views across the Gulf of Thailand. All mod cons prevail, including all-weather fully-equipped kitchens and BBQs, and private infinity pools. There’s no need for a restaurant as your villa manager or chef will come and rustle up a feast in your kitchen, and if you’re too stuffed to move afterwards, fear not – the team of wellness therapists, yoga instructors and even Thai-boxing coaches will also attend to your needs in the comfort of your own villa. 

What’s nearby? From customs straight to paradise, the airport is just 10 minutes away which is pretty handy. 

Budget range: It's well worth the luxury price tag for those gorgeous island views from the infinity pool. Bask away. 

Time Out tip: There's never been a better time to experience something new, so why not give windsurfing a try? The resort will hook you up. 

Literally a feast for the senses, or at least the olfactory system, once you light your complimentary incense. Step back in time with one of these Thai-colonial suites, blended with mid-century style, each brimming with luxury and opulence but filled with individual pieces to set the rooms apart. The hotel is set on Bangrak beach, which is clean, swept, and great for swimming. Head to the Roastery Village, a community space where you can enjoy good company and a delicious all-day brunch menu. To top it all off, the charming staff are welcoming and on hand to arrange taxis, tours and free kayaks.

What’s nearby? A short drive to Bang Rak Pier for ferries towards Koh Phangan where you'll discover hiking trails a plenty – oh, and the nightlife. 

Budget range: As cheap as cheap gets for a typical three-day stay or longer. 

Time Out tip: If you want to keep your vacation cheap and cheerful, you can enjoy a little picnic on Bangrak Beach. 

Find enlightenment just a 40-minute drive away from the airport at this beachside resort that’s been sensitively constructed around a sacred hillside and cave where monks and locals have been coming (and still do) to meditate for centuries. This is the place to switch off, reboot and reset your body and soul, and we’re not talking the odd yoga or meditation class; an individually tailored spa and wellbeing programme are planned as you check in. Rooms are simple and understated, but feature local art and woods, and two open-air restaurants focus on healthy living (don’t worry, there’s a wine list).

What’s nearby? Surrounded by lush forestland, boulders and the beach, Kamalaya is all about serenity. 

Budget range: On the pricier end for a three-night minimum stay but not hideously so... 

Time Out tip: Want to feel rejuvenated? Then the sleep enhancement program is the way to go.  

Modern minimalism awaits you at this intimate, leafy, boutique resort made up of 46 dazzlingly white and uncluttered studios, suites and villas smack bang in the middle of Chaweng beach. Its signature red swimming pool is certainly striking, but if it’s not to your taste, turquoise waters are lapping at the hotel’s door. Surprisingly there’s no on-site spa (though many others nearby) but there is a small gym, that pool, and of course, a library. The stylish Page restaurant’s broad menu includes some lesser-known Thai dishes.

What’s nearby? Fisherman's Village is a stone's throw away, known for its famous night market and hipster coffee spots.

Budget range: Moderately priced for a typical three-night stay in one of these chic minimalist beachfront accommodations. 

Time Out tip: If you can afford to splash out a bit, go for the villa with the secret pool – you won't regret it.

Relaxation is the name of the game here, here being at the far end of Lamai beach, where you may be too chilled to even leave the resort. There’s a casual, informal vibe to the property and its 47 rooms and three private villas, though it still manages to feel upmarket and boutique. It’s a 50m wade if you want to swim from the small private beach, but with two pools at your disposal, save those sea legs. The main restaurant, The Dining Room, is well known for its French cuisine with a twist. Expect Foie Gras and quail on the menu.

What’s nearby? Should you want to leave this secluded paradise, You're a 20-minute drive from Chaweng Beach. 

Budget range: A pretty affordable tropical escape with a spectacular pool, garden or sea view. 

Time Out tip: Honeymooning? This is the ultimate destination. Guests love it for the views, the peace and quiet, the excellent service and the breakfast. 

Beautifully-kept tropical gardens full of jasmine, bougainvillea, hibiscus and cashew trees are the first things you’ll spot at this understated five-star gem – look closer and you might even spot the resident water buffalo. The 45 villas, 24 suites and some private pool residences are all spacious and feature Thai-style decor, including heaps of teak and vaulted ceilings. Children are welcome and although there’s no dedicated kids’ club, they can get involved in the many activities on offer (for all ages) – among them cookery classes, water sports and even Thai language lessons.

What’s nearby? Surrounded by 180-degree panoramic views if the ocean. Dreamy. 

Budget range: This 5-star resort is as spenny as you might expect. After all, it's not every day you have access to a private beachfront. 

Time Out tip: Get out on the water with PADI-certified diving and snorkelling lessons. 

A lush, tropical jungle practically envelopes this family-friendly beach resort of 106 classic Thai-style rooms and suites. You’ve a choice of three eateries; the main restaurant, Full Moon Samui, specialises in chargrilled delights, the other two have a good selection of Thai and International dishes. Rooms are on the small side but chances are you’ll be in them very little; we’d suggest spending your time in the impressive infinity pool or pampering yourself in the beautifully-designed spa instead.

What’s nearby? The bars and restaurants of relaxed Fisherman’s Village are within striking distance should you want to venture further afield.

Budget range: In the mid-high ranges for the premier garden view room. 

Time Out tip: If you do hit the spa, we highly recommend booking yourself in for the signature massage. Kiddies are welcome too. 

Adults only please, as most guests are here for a weight-loss, detox or spa-pampering programme they’ve signed up to in advance – the extra-energetic can opt for muay thai (Thai boxing) classes (ceremonial blessing of the headband included). Although it’s just 15 minutes from the airport there are no bars, restaurants or beaches in the immediate vicinity, making it almost a retreat (there is though a shuttle service to Chaweng). Décor, from the swimming pool and its surrounding buildings right through to the 38 rooms, is distinctly Moroccan – expect lots of yellow, orange, gold and tassels.

What’s nearby? Another secluded wellness retreat with views to die for, just a 10-minute drive from the airport.

Budget range: Splendidly cheap with the inclusion of breakfast too. Win-win. 

Time Out tip: Book yourself in for Pilates reformer, followed by a full body massage. You'll sleep like a baby. 

Cool and contemporary, this W hotels outpost brings a party vibe to the north coast, where it’s set high on a peninsula at the meeting point of Bo Phut and Mae Nam bays, with miles of golden sand down at sea level… though you may not make it down to them. Two bars, two restaurants, a spa, gym, free classes and peach-keen staff ready to go the extra mile really will make it hard to leave. The chic standard rooms (ocean or jungle) measure a suite-like 163 square metres, and all come with private pools and wooden decks; ‘wow’ villas are even more palatial.

What’s nearby? A stone's throw from the famous Big Buddha Temple. An absolute must-see. 

Budget range:  On the pricier side, but expect exceptional amenities and entertainment. From oil massages to free ice cream.

Time Out tip: Climb the 72 steps at the Big Buddha Temple for stunning panoramas of Koh Samui. 

For a more European beach-club kind of experience, head west to Lipa Noi and this Thai outpost of the global luxury lifestyle chain. Geared more towards couples and groups, it’s sushi, champers and DJs all the way; the Sunday brunch/pool party is a must. Don’t worry about the rather remote location as the hotel provides a shuttle to popular spots on the island. Honeymooners will love the penthouse, with its panoramic views of the ocean and the 75m pool below, but the other 20 suites and villas are all spacious and comfortable too.

What’s nearby? Just 10km from Namuang Waterfall where you can book a guided hiking tour. 

Budget range: This boutique resort is decently priced for a typical three-night stay. 

Time Out tip: If you don't fancy the hike at Namuang Waterfall, stick to the lower part which forms a natural pool. Stunning. 

Nestled in tropical gardens, just on the northwestern edge, the Four Seasons is a gorgeous oasis for two – or indeed the whole gang – with 13 ocean-facing villas, some of which can house up to 15 guests. Each villa contains modern, stylish, sun-soaked interiors with tropic accents inspired by the island for an authentic touch. The art of doing nothing couldn't be simpler here. Really. But if you ever do get bored of sun lounging or taking a dip by the ocean, there's private yacht excursions, snorkelling and diving at Sail Rock, Tennis lessons, Muay Thai and golf. Not your thing? How to being chauffeured to Coconut Island for a private exploration sound?

What’s nearby? Surrounded by teal blue waters, lush forests, and a gorgeous beach – there's tranquillity, then there's this. With neighboring island like Koh Toa and Angthong Marine Park to explore.

Budget range: That hefty price tag is nothing a massage won't fix. 

Time Out tip: Set the mood for your romantic getaway right with a sunset cruise aboard the "Minor Affair". 

An enviable distance – a five-minute stroll to be exact– from Mai Khao's pristine, white sandy shores, Anantara Vacation Club Phuket provides quite the luxury stay for its guests. You know,  elegantly furnished villas kitted out to the nines with a kitchen, flat-screen TV, washing machine and dryer. No biggie. Here, the practical and the hum-drum are well taken care of so, you can get back to that whisked-away-to paradise feeling. We all much prefer it there. 

What’s nearby? You're 50 minutes away from the walkable Phucket Town. Lined with charming pastel-coloured shophouses and a very popular night market. 

Budget range: Certainly one for the big spenders, this place has honeymoon written all over. 

Time Out tip: Dine at One Chun for a taste of authentic southern Thai food.